The aptly named ‘GO TRI 1000’ weekend saw 35 separate locations offer beginner distance races to those wanting to be part of one of the fastest growing sports in the UK. 

From Stockton to Skegness, Purbeck to Ponteland, men and women of all ages and abilities pledged their support for GO TRI 1000 by signing up to their local event and putting their all into crossing the finish line. 

 

Events ranged from triathlons to duathlons (bike and run) and aquathlons (swim and run), starting at manageable distances of a 100m swim, 2.5km bike and 1km run. Supporters gathered to cheer on friends and family taking part and together witnessed individual goals conquered up and down the country.

 

Participant, Andy Farrow, said; “I’m a regular runner but I wasn’t expecting to feel how I did coming out of the water. It was fast but very rewarding and I’m now definitely on the lookout for my next event.”

 

Mick Hold, a competitor at GO TRI Sheepey added; “This was my first experience of multisport after preparing by doing a regular circuit training class. 

“I really enjoyed the experience and my next step is to try something a bit longer.”

 

The events attracted many individuals who, for differing reasons, were seeking an entry path into the sport. A combination of affordable prices and a low-pressure environment appeared to be a strong pull for those seeking a way back to fitness that they could balance around busy lifestyles. 

This was the case with Laura Shaw who, both excited and terrified in equal measure, pulled on her swimming hat for her first aquathlon during the weekend.  Laura was a regular runner before the arrival of her now 18-month-old son. The challenge of balancing a family, a fulltime job and the want to be physically active had previously prevented her from getting involved in a sport. However, GO TRI 1000 caught her eye and, after a little encouragement, she was keen to give it as go. 

 

At GO TRI Northumberland we met Yvonne, who commented; “I’ve always wanted to have a go at triathlon but the fact that I can’t really swim and am not very good on a bike or at running put me off.  When I read about the GO TRI 1000 event, I thought now was the opportunity to have a go.

“The only thing I have really done to prepare for the event is taking my basket off my bike – but I can now say I’m a triathlete!”

 

Feel inspired? GO TRI events and training sessions are regularly taking place up and down the country, giving you the perfect opportunity to take the plunge and get started in triathlon. Visit gotri.org to find your local venue and make lasting memories in the sport!